G/LIC/N/3/JPN/ 22 
 
4 September 2023  
(23-5903) Page: 1/35 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original: English  
 
  
REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER ARTICLE 7.3 OF THE AGREEMENT  
ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES (2023)  
JAPAN 
The following communication, dated 29 August 2023, is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of Japan.  
 
Table of contents:  
1   MARINE PRODUCTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 2 
1.1   Import Quota Items  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 2 
1.2   Import Approval Items  ................................ ................................ ...............................  5 
1.3   Catch Documentation Scheme  ................................ ................................ .....................  7 
2   AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS  ................................ ................................ .........................  8 
3   MEDICINES  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  11 
4   PROPELLANT POWDERS  ................................ ................................ ............................  12 
5   NUCLEAR GOODS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 14 
6   WEAPONS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  15 
7   WILD ANIMALS AND PLANTS  ................................ ................................ ....................  17 
8   SUBSTANCES WHICH DEPLETE THE OZONE LAYER, SPECIFIED HAZARDOUS 
WASTES,  WASTES, CHEMICAL WEAPONS GOODS  ................................ ...........................  18 
8.1   Import Quota Items  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 18 
8.2   Import Approval Items  ................................ ................................ ..............................  21 
9   CULTURAL PROPERTY  ................................ ................................ ................................  22 
10   ALCOHOL  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  24 
11   ROUGH DIAMONDS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 25 
12   CULTURAL PROPERTY ILLEGALLY REMOVED FROM IRAQ  ................................ ........  27 
13   ALL OF T HE GOODS FROM NORTH KOREA  ................................ ................................  28 
14   WEAPONS AND OTHER ITEMS FROM THE LIBYAN ARAB JAMAHIRIYA  .....................  29 
15   CHARCOAL FROM SOMALIA  ................................ ................................ .....................  30 
16   CHEMICAL WEAPONS AND OTHER ITEMS RELATED TO CHEMICAL WEAPONS 
PROGRAMME AND CULTURAL PROPERTY ILLEGALLY MOVED FROM THE SY RIAN 
ARAB  REPUBLIC  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  31 
17   MERCURY AND MERCURY -ADDED PRODUCTS  ................................ ..........................  32 
 
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  18   CERTAIN PRODUCTS  ORIGINATED IN, OR COMING FROM, THE RUSSIAN 
FEDERATION  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  33 
18.1 Import Prohibition based on Import Trade Control Order  ................................ ................  33 
18.2 Import Prohibition based on Foreign Exchange Order  ................................ .....................  34 
 
1  MARINE PRODUCTS  
1.1  Import Quota Items  
Outline of systems  
1. The Minister of Economy, Trade  and Industry (hereinafter referred to as "METI") shall designate 
and publish a list of items of goods for which allocations of import quota are required in accordance 
with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. Importers of the items set out in the list shall be 
approved by the METI to import them according to Article 4 of the Order. Import approvals and 
quotas are not granted unless applied for in accordance with Article 9 of the Import Trade Control 
Order.  
 
The list of import quota items shall be m ade public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official 
Bulletin of Economy, Trade and Industry and the International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for the following marine products ("ex" indicates t hat only a part of the 
heading is covered).  
 
HS No.  Description of Goods  
ex 03.01  
ex 03.02  
ex 03.03  
ex 03.04  
ex 03.05  
ex 03.09  Herring, Cod, Yellowtail, Mackerel, Sardine, Horse mackerel, Saury, roes of Cod and Niboshi 
(small boiled and dried fish for seasoning), live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted or in brine  
Flours and meals of Herring, Cod, Yellowtail, Mackerel, Sardine , Horse mackerel and Saury  
ex 03.07  
ex 03.09  Scallops, adductors of shellfish, cuttlefish and squid (excluding "Mongo -ika") 
Flours of Scallops, adductors of shellfish, cuttlefish and squid (excluding "Mongo -ika") 
ex 12.12  
ex 20.01  
ex 20.08  
ex 21.03  Edible seaweeds and its food preparations  
 
3. In principle, the approval system applies to the products originating or shipped in all countries.  
 
4. In principle, import of the products listed in 2 above shall be restricted quantitatively.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1.(1) and Article 9.1 of the Import 
Trade Control Order. The list of controlled items shall be published as an Import Notice in the Official 
Gazette. It is possible for the Government to abolish the s ystem without legislative approval. 
(Within  the Government, consent shall be required from the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and 
Fisheries (hereinafter referred to as "MAFF") who has jurisdiction for these products.)  
 
Procedures  
6. In principle, the ap proval system applies to the products originating or shipped in all countries.  
 
I. The information about the application for import quota allocation shall be published in the 
Official Bulletin of Economy, Trade and Industry and the International Trade Bulletin. The total 
amount of import quota shall be published in the Official Bulletin of Economy, Trade and 
Industry and others. Import quota items are classified as follows:  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  Items           Originating country  
 
- Herring, Cod, Yellowt ail, Mackerel, Sardines, Horse   All countries  
 mackerel, Sauries, roes of Cod and Niboshi (small    (country of demand  
  boiled and dried fish for seasoning), live,     to export)  
  fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted or in brine  
Flours and meals of Herr ing, Cod, Yellowtail, Mackerel, Sardine, Horse mackerel and 
Saury   
 
- Scallops, adductors of shellfish, cuttle -fish and    All countries  
  squid (excluding "Mongo -ika")      (country of demand  
  Flours of Scallops, adductors of shellfish,     to export)  
cuttlefish and squid (excluding "Mongo -ika")  
 
- Edible seaweeds and its food preparations      All countries  
            (country of demand  
            to export)  
 
An application for import licensing is not necessary in such cases where the value of a cargo 
should be estimated below Yen 180,000 and should be of no -commercial value. In these cases, 
a declaration shall be sent to customs, and a confirmation shall be received from the customs 
bureau.  
 
II. The size of quota shall be determined, taking into account the balance of domestic supply and 
demand. When the METI designates the size of quota, it shall first obtain consent from the 
MAFF, who has jurisdiction for the product.  
 
 The scale of import quota is determined on a one -year basis, based on the f orecast of domestic 
supply and demand. A certificate of import approval is issued for each application made by 
importers.  
 
III. The certificate of import approval is issued to importers such as traders. Importers shall submit 
an application for a certific ate of import approval to the METI. Then importers can import the 
goods concerned after submitting the import approval to the customs bureau.  
 
Actual importation corresponding to the import quota is confirmed by the report of importation, 
which importers s ubmit to the METI. Importers are requested to submit such reports according 
to the application procedure of import quota.  
 
 Unused allocations, in principle, are not added to quotas for a succeeding period as the 
allocation is determined based on the forec ast of domestic supply and demand. However, as 
an exception, it shall be allowed to add to quota of the succeeding period only on condition 
that an importer has no responsibility for the cause of unused allocations or that prohibition 
from the exporter's s ide leads to unused allocations, etc.  
 
IV. Publication of the information concerning procedures shall take place at least 21 days prior to 
the first day of accepting applications.  
 
V. After receipt of an application for import quota and approval, the METI shall process the 
application within four weeks.  
 
VI. An application for an import quota and approval shall be made prior to the import declaration.  
After issuance of the certificate of import approval issued by the METI, it would be possible 
for an impor ter to declare an import anytime, even on the very day of the issuance of the 
certificate of import approval.  
 
VII. Consideration of an import quota and approval application shall be carried out only by the 
METI.  
 
VIII. The level of the import quota is de termined so that the necessary amount of goods will be 
imported. However, in the case where the level of import quota is smaller than the total 
quantity applied for by importers, the capability of an importer is mainly taken into account, G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  specifically, the  importer's experience of obtaining an import quota and importing goods, 
based on certificate of import quota. For new importers, a certain portion of import quota is 
available to allocate on a "first -come first -served" basis.  
 Applications for an import q uota and approval are examined on receipt.  
 
IX-XI. Not applicable.  
 
7. Not applicable.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g.  the period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Qualification for application for a certificate of import approval is described on the application 
form. In principle, importers who are qualified for application should meet any of the following three 
cases:  
 
(1) An importer who has experience of obtaining the certificate of import quota and of importing 
goods based on the certificate of import approval;  
 
(2) An importer who is ordered to get materials by associations of seafood processors, which are 
admitted by Fisheries Agency, to obtain materials to be processed by the processors;  
 
(3) An importer who has experience of im porting foods listed in Sections 1 to 4 of the Customs 
Tariff Schedule and intends to import items subject to import quota with a definite plan.  
 
There is no system of registration of persons or firms permitted to engage in importation.   
 
Documentational a nd other requirements for application for a licence  
10. An application for import quota allocation and approval should be submitted to the METI. Another 
requirement is a certificate demonstrating that an applicant meets the application criteria.  
 
11. A cur rent certificate of import approval by the METI is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The validity term of a certificate of import approval, issued by the METI, is one year.   
 
In the case of an application of an extension for certificates of import approval, the METI may receive 
the application.  
 
An applicant ha s to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of more than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. A penalty for an importer who has not utilized all, or a portion of a  licence is as follows:  
 
In cases where an allocation is made for importers who import these products on their own initiatives, 
or on a first -come, first -served basis, allocation will not be made in the following year for such an 
importer who has utilized less than 80 per cent of the allocated quota without any justifiable reason.  
 
In cases where an allocation is made for importers who import these products on behalf of users, 
application for quota in the following year will be limited to the level of actu al import performance 
for such an importer who has utilized less than 80 per cent of the allocated quota without any 
justifiable reason.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licenc e. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
1.2  Import Approval Items  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for the following m arine products:  
 
(1) Marine animals and their preparations  
 HS Nos.  ex01.06, ex02.08, ex02.10, ex15.04, ex15.21, 16.01, ex16.02, ex23.01, 23.09  
 
(2) Fish, crustaceans, other aquatics and their preparations  
 HS Nos.  ex02.08, ex02.10, 03.01, 03.02, 03.03, 03.04, 03.05, 03.06, 03.07, 03.09, ex15.04, 
15.06, 16.04,  16.05, ex21.06, ex23.01, 23.09  
 
(3) Products of animal origin (marine animals, fish, crustaceans and mollusc)  
 HS Nos.  05.04, 05.06, 05.07, 05.08, ex05.11  
 
(4) Seaweeds and their preparations  
 HS Nos.  ex12.12, ex20.01, ex20.08, ex21.03  
 
(5) Salmon and (salmon) trout and their preparations  
 HS Nos.  ex03.01, ex03.02, ex03.03, 03.04, ex03.05, 03.09, ex16.04  
 
(6) Bluefin tuna (only fresh and chilled Bluefin tuna fa rmed in Atlantic Ocean and the 
Mediterranean)  
 HS Nos.  ex03.02, ex03.04  
 
(7) Southern bluefin tuna (only fresh and chilled Southern bluefin tuna)  
 HS Nos.  ex03.02, ex03.04  
 
3.(1) The approval system applies to paragraphs 2.(1) to 2.(4) for only those products shipped from 
waters outside those of Japan (always excepting the case of shipment from harbours of foreign 
countries and the case of import by fishing boats which have left Japanese territory, not having 
been trans shipped the goods from fishing b oats which have left places other than Japanese 
territory).  
 
(2) The approval system applies to paragraph 2.(6) for those products coming from the People's 
Republic of China, North Korea and Chinese Taipei.  
 
(3) The approval system applies to paragraph 2.( 7) for those products coming from the non -
member countries of the ICCAT (if places of origin are these countries).  
 
(4) The approval system applies to paragraph 2.(8) for those products coming from the non -
member countries of the CCSBT.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  4. The licensing  is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  
 
The objective of measures described in 2.(1) -(4) is to ensure that the fish products caught by foreign 
fishermen and imported to Japan do not adversely affect fishing activities by Japanese fi shermen.  
 
The objective of measures described in 2.(5) is to comply with the obligations under the CITES.  
 
The objective of measures described in 2.(6) is to observe the provisions of Article 66 of UNCLOS, 
regarding the principles of the anadromous stocks  with reference to the state of its origin.  
 
The objective of restriction of 2.(7) above is to observe the resolution of the ICCAT.  
 
The objective of measures described in 2.(8) is to comply with the resolution of the CCSBT, which 
restricts the import of southern bluefin tuna from non -CCSBT members to CCSBT members.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1 (2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. The controlled items shall be published as an Import Notice in the Official Gazette. It is 
possible for the government to abolish the system without legislative approval; however, consent 
shall be required from the MAFF who has jurisdiction for these products.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around one week of the proces sing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. the period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, fir m or institution which fulfils the legal requirements are equally eligible to apply for 
and obtain import approval.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a licence  
10. An application and state of reason should be submitted to the METI .  
 
In case of products listed under paragraph 2.(5) -(8), an importer shall submit the confirmation 
issued by the Fisheries Agency.  
 
11. A current certificate of import approval by the METI is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  Conditions of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designate a validity term 
different from this or extend the validity as required by certain circumstances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of more th an two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
1.3  Catch Documentation Scheme  
Outline of systems  
1. The items in paragraph 2 are subject to Japan catch docum entation scheme based on "Act on 
Ensuring the Proper Domestic Distribution and Importation of Specified Aquatic Animals and Plants" 
and its Enforcement Regulation to prevent the import of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) 
catches into Japan, aiming  at contributing to the global efforts to eliminate IUU fishing.  
 
Japan catch documentation scheme requires importers to submit a catch certificate (hereinafter 
referred to as "CC") issued by competent authority of foreign government and other documents to  
the Japan Customs at the time of import. In principle, the scheme does not require importers to 
obtain approval of importation as a prior condition for importation in relation to import licensing 
regime. Foreign government agencies which will issue CC mus t consult with Fisheries Agency of 
Japan, MAFF, and notify forms of CC in advance.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Items that are subject to Japan catch documentation scheme are listed below.  
 
HS No.  Description of Goods  
ex 03.01  
ex 03.02  
ex 03.03  
ex 03.04  
ex 03.05  
ex 03.07  
ex 16.04  
ex 16.05  Squid and cuttle fish, Pacific saury (Cololabis spp.), Mackerel (Scomber spp.), Sardine 
(Sardinops spp.)   
 
3. The scheme applies to the products coming from all countries.  
 
4. Japan catch documentation scheme is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. 
Its purpose is to prevent the import of IUU catches into Japan, aiming at contributing to the global  
efforts to eliminate IUU fishing.  
 
5. Japan catch docume ntation scheme is a statutory requirement of Article 11 of Act on Ensuring 
the Proper Domestic Distribution and Importation of Specified Aquatic Animals and Plants and 
Article  25 of Enforcement Regulation of the Act on Ensuring the Proper Domestic Distribu tion and 
Importation of Specified Aquatic Animals and Plants. Legislation leaves the designation of products  
subject to the scheme up to administrative discretion.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of the products.  
 
(a) The items subject to the scheme cannot be imported without a CC issued by competent 
authority of foreign government. An importer shall obtain a CC from the foreign government, 
in advance of importation, taking into consideration the processi ng time of the foreign 
government. Foreign government agencies which will issue CC must consult with Fisheries 
Agency of Japan, MAFF, and notify forms of CC in advance.  
 
(b) In principle, the scheme does not require importers to obtain approval of importat ion as a 
prior condition for importation in relation to import licensing regime.  
 
(c) Importers may import in any time of the year when a CC issued by competent authority of 
foreign government is attached to the imported item.  
 
(d) CCs for import are check ed by the Japan Customs.  
 
8. In principle, no application shall be refused so long as that the procedures (a) through (d) of 7 
are met.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. There is no eligibility requirements on importers for submission of CC  to the Japan Customs.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a licence  
10.-13. CC issued by competent authority of foreign government will be required at the time of 
import. There is no application fee or administrative charge on impo rters for submission of CC.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. In principle, there are no other conditions so long as that the procedures (a) through (d) of 
7 are met.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
2  AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS  
Outline of systems  
1. The system of tariff rate quota is stipulated in the Customs Tariff Law, the Temporary Tariff 
Measures Law, the Cabinet Order on Tariff Rate Quo ta (hereinafter referred to as "TRQ") System 
and other related regulations. Specific procedures below are stipulated in the above Cabinet Order.  
 
(1) A list of products and their quantity under the TRQ system are determined and publicized.  
 
(2)  Applicant s that intend to obtain allocations of quota for certain agricultural products need to 
apply to the MAFF.  
 
(3)  The MAFF allocates the quota to applicants by issuing certificates of quota.  
 
(4)  Importers need to submit their certificates to the Directors -General of Customs when they 
import those products under the TRQ system.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Agricultural products that are subject to the TRQ system are listed below.  
 
Tariff item number  Description of products  
ex04.01, ex04.03, ex04.04, ex18.06, 
ex19.01, ex21.01, ex21.06  Other dairy products for general use  
ex04.02  Skimmed milk powder (For other purposes)  
ex04.02  Skimmed milk powder (For school lunch)  
ex04.02  Evaporated milk  
ex04.04  Mineral concentrated whey  
ex04.04  Whey and modified whey (For feeding purposes)  
ex04.04  Prepared whey (For infant formula)  
ex04.05  Butter and butteroil  
ex07.13  Dried leguminous vegetables  
ex11.08, ex19.01  Starches, inulin, and their preparations  
ex12.02  Ground -nuts 
ex12.12  Tubers of konnyaku  
ex21.06  Prepared edible fat  
ex50.01, ex50.02  Silk-worm cocoons and Raw silk  
 
3. The TRQ system applies to products originating in and coming from any country, except for 
prepared edible fat which has country specific quota for New Zealand.  
 
4. The TRQ system was established as a result of  the Uruguay Round Agreements and is not intended 
to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The TRQ system charges a lower duty rate on imports of 
certain products with certificates up to a certain quantity and allows imports without certificates of 
TRQ by applying the out -of-quota duty rate.  
 
5. The TRQ system is a statutory requirement based on the following law and regulation.  
 
-  The Customs Tariff Law (Article 9.2).  
-  The Temporary Tariff Measures Law (Article 8.5).  
-  The Cabinet Order on Tarif f Rate Quota System.  
-  The Decree -law by the MAFF on TRQ Administration on Various Products such as Maize 
Products that are subject to the TRQ system are designated by the Cabinet Order. It is not 
possible for the government to abolish the system without a legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. In principle, the approval system applies to the products originating or shipped in all countries.  
 
I. The information concerning allocation of quotas and formalities of filling application for TRQ is 
stipulated in th e Decree -law and published on the website of the Ministry of Agriculture, 
Forestry and Fisheries, the Official Bulletin of Economy, Trade and Industry and the 
International Trade Bulletin. The amount of quotas and the names of importers to which 
quotas are  allocated are published. There are no exceptions or derogations from the 
requirement.  
 
II. The size of quotas is determined on a yearly basis. There are some cases where the size of 
quota is determined on a yearly basis but licenses are issued for importe rs a few times a year. 
Most of the issued licenses are valid until the end of the fiscal year.  
 
III. Certificates of quota are not only issued to domestic producers, but also to importers and 
others. If importers do not actually use allocated quotas, quota s allocated to those importers 
in the succeeding period can be affected. Unused quotas are not added to quotas for a 
succeeding period.  
 
 The names of importers to whom certificates of quota are issued are published on the website 
of the Ministry of Agricu lture, Forestry and Fisheries, the Official Bulletin of Economy, Trade 
and Industry and the International Trade Bulletin.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  IV. Publication of the information concerning procedures shall take place at least 90 days prior to 
the first day of accepting applic ations.  
 
V. An application for TRQ will be processed as quickly as possible, within a maximum of 60 days 
after a receipt of the application.  
 
VI. Importers can declare an import subject to TRQ anytime on and after the date of the issuance 
of certificates of quota as long as the licenses are valid.  
 
VII. Consideration of the applications for TRQ is carried out by a single administration organ, the 
MAFF.  
 
VIII. The allocation of quotas is determined so that the necessary amounts of products are imported. 
However, in the case where the total amount applied exceeds the in -quota amount as a whole, 
certain elements could be taken into account to determin e the allocation of quotas, such as a 
plan for usage of products concerned, the actual import and usage in the previous period. 
Several applications for quotas are examined simultaneously.  
 
IX. Certificates for quotas are also required in the case of prepa red edible fat, where the country 
specific quota is established. Certificates are not issued automatically, and the same 
procedures will apply with other products.  
 
X-XI. Not applicable.  
 
7. At the out -of-quota duty rate, certificate of TRQ is not required  and there are no limitations 
regarding quantity.  
 
8. No application is refused so long as that application meets the ordinary criteria.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Only qualified importers are able to apply for TRQs. The information regarding the eligibility of 
importers to whom certificates of quota are issued is published on the website of the Ministry of 
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the Official Bulletin of Economy, Trade and Industry and the 
International Trade Bulletin.  
 
There is no system of registration of persons or firms permitted to engage in importation under TRQ.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a licence  
10. Information concerning application for TRQs has been published on the website of the Ministry 
of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.  
 
11. Certificates are required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for applying for TRQ.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required regarding the issuance of certificates of TRQ.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. In principle, the period of the validity of a certificate is one year, six months, or until the end of 
the fiscal year, and is stipulated in the Cabinet Order on TRQ System, etc.  
 
15. If importe rs do not utilize all or a part of allocated quotas, quotas allocated to those importers 
for the succeeding period can be affected.  
 
16. A certificate of TRQ may not be transferred.  
 
17. There is no other condition attached to the issuance of a certificate  of TRQ.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
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  Other procedural requirements  
18. There is no administrative procedure required prior to importation other than the issuance of a 
certificate of quota.  
 
19. There is no requirement regarding foreign exchange.  
 
3  MEDICINES  
Outline of systems  
1. The  METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for the following medicines and chemical products:  
 
HS No.   Description of Goods  
 
ex 3002.42   Foot-and-mouth disease vaccine (excluding those for clinical trial)  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The approval system 
exists to protect the life and health of animals. A certificate for an import approval shall be issued 
to a person obtaining permission by the MA FF which has jurisdiction for good listed above.   
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. I t is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificat e of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on  
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. the period of application, the eligibi lity 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. A person who has obtained permission from the Director -General, Food Safety and Consumer 
Affairs Bureau, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, or a person who has been 
commissioned to import the item by the person who has obtained the permission.  G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 12 - 
 
  Documentational and other requirements for application for a licence  
10. An application and state of re ason for import license should be submitted to the METI.  
 
11. A current certificate of import approval by the METI is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment  is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designate a validity term 
different from this or extend the validity as required by certain circums tances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of more than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization o f a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior  to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
4  PROPELLANT POWDERS  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Offici al Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for the following propellant powders:  
 
HS No.   Description of Goods  
 
36.01    Propellant powders, prepared explosives, safety  
36.02    fuses, etc.  
ex 36.03  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The approval system is 
for security purposes. A certificate for an import approval shall be issued to a person and obtained 
by manufacturing or selling permission.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation lea ves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 13 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the proce ssing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI . 
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. the period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Only a person w ho has obtained manufacturing or selling permission is eligible to apply for an 
import approval.  
 
The eligibility for an import approval comes under any one of the above. There is no other 
registration system.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a licence  
10. An application and state of reason for import license should be submitted to the METI.  
 
11. A current certificate of import approval by the METI is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administra tive charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designate a validity term 
different from this or extend the validity as required by certain circumstances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of more than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 14 - 
 
  5  NUCLEAR GOODS  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for whic h import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of  items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for the following nuclear goods:  
 
HS No.  Description of Goods  
 
26.12    Nuclear materials, nuclear fuel, nuclear reactors,  
ex 28.44   instruments and apparatus containing nuclear   
ex 81.09   fuel materials, for measuring or detecting  
ex 84.01   ionising radiations, tubes of zirconium, etc.  
ex 90 .30 
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The approval system is 
for security purposes. A certificate for an import approval shall be issued to  a person who deals with 
refinement, processing, establishing nuclear reactors, or reprocessing, after having obtained the 
described permission.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legisla tion leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. the period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. A person who refines, pr ocesses, establishes nuclear reactors or reprocesses after having obtained 
the described permission is eligible to apply for an import approval.  
 
The eligibility for an import approval comes under any one of the above. There is no other 
registration system .  G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 15 - 
 
  Documentational and other requirements for application for a licence  
10. An application and state of reason for import license should be submitted to the METI.  
 
11. A current certificate of import approval by the METI is required upon actual importation . 
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designate a validity term 
different from this or extend the validity as required by certain circumstances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and i n the case of more than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
6  WEAPONS  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for the following w eapons:  
 
HS No.  Description of Goods  
ex 84.11  
ex 84.12  
87.10  
ex 88.02  
ex 89.06 
93.01  
93.02  
93.03  
ex 93.04  
ex 93.05  
ex 93.06  
ex 93.07  Weapons, ammunition and parts thereof, etc.  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from all countries.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 16 - 
 
  4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The approval system is 
for security purposes. A certificate for an import approval shall be issued to a person who is entrusted 
imports by public bodies in the state  or at local level, or who obtains manufacturing permission.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be gr anted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. the period of appl ication, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. A person who is entrusted to import by public bodies in the state or at local level, or who obtains 
manufacturing permission is eligible to apply for an import approval.  
 
The eligibility for an import approval comes under any one of the above. There is no other 
registration system.   
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a licence  
10. An application and state of reason for import license should be submitted to the METI.  
 
11. A current certificate of import approval by the METI is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designate a validity term 
different from this or extend the validi ty as required by certain circumstances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of more than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 17 - 
 
  Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
7  WILD ANIMALS AND PLANTS  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, t o comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the ME TI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for:  
 
(1) Animals and plants included in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in 
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (hereinafter referred to as "CITES"), plus their 
parts and derivatives.  
 
(2) Animals and plants belonging to species listed in Appendix II of the CITES, plus their parts 
and derivatives (for  plants, only those parts and derivatives specified in Appendix II).  
 
(3) Animals and plants belonging to species listed in Appendix  III of the CITES, plus their parts 
and derivatives.  
 
3. In principle, the approval system applies to paragraph 2.(1), (2) a nd (3) with regard to that 
coming from members of CITES.  
 
4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The approval system 
shall function to perform the duty of the CITES.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement  of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around one weeks of the processing ti me. 
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time therefore; an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. the period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures; however, in principle, 
approval shall not be given to the items listed in 2.(2) and 2.(3).  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 18 - 
 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Only importers concerned with museums or zoos, and imports for scientific research, as well as 
imports of artificial propagation animals or plants for businesses, and the imports of anim als or 
plants that have been acquired are eligible to apply for import approval.  
 
The eligibility for an import approval comes under any one of the above. There is no other 
registration system.   
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a  licence  
10. An application and state of reason for import license should be submitted to the METI.  
 
11. A current certificate of import approval by the METI and cites export permit from exporter are 
required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licen sing fee or administrative charge for applying for certificate of import approval 
by the METI.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required regarding the issuance of certificates of import 
approval by the METI.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. In principle, the period of the validity of a certificate is six months.  
 
15. There is not any penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. Another condition concerning the issuance of  a licence is that when making a declaration to a 
customs bureau, submission to the customs authorities of the original of the export permit or the 
certificate of re -export is required.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There is no administrative procedure required prior to importation other than the issuance of a 
certificate of import approval by the METI.  
 
19. There is no requirement regarding foreign exchange.  
 
8  SUBSTANCES WHICH DEPLETE THE OZONE LAYER, SPECIFIED HAZARDOUS WASTES, 
WASTES, CHEMICAL WEAPONS GOODS  
8.1  Import Quota Items  
Outline of systems  
1. The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (hereinafter referred to as "METI") shall designate 
and publish a list of items of goods for which allocations of import quota are r equired in accordance 
with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. Importers of the items set out in the list shall be 
approved by the METI to import them according to Article 4 of the Order. The approval of import 
shall not be granted until importers  apply for and obtain allocations of import quota in accordance 
with Article 9 of the Order.  
 
The list of import quota items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official 
Bulletin of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Internationa l Trade Bulletin.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 19 - 
 
  Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for controlled substances listed in: Annex A, Group I (excluding Import 
approval items in Substances which Deplete the Ozone Layer, those used as raw materials for 
producing ot her substances and those used for laboratory and analytical purpose); Annex A, Group  II 
(excluding Import approval items in Substances which Deplete the Ozone Layer, and those used as 
raw materials for producing other substances); Annex B (excluding Import  approval items in 
Substances which Deplete the Ozone Layer, those used as raw materials for producing other 
substances and those used for laboratory and analytical purpose); Annex C, Group I (excluding 
Import approval items in Substances which Deplete the  Ozone Layer and those used as raw materials 
for producing other substances); Annex  C, Group II (excluding Import approval items in Substances 
which Deplete the Ozone Layer, those used as raw materials for producing other substances and 
those used for labo ratory and analytical purpose); Annex C, Group III (excluding Import approval 
items in Substances which Deplete the Ozone Layer, those used as raw materials for producing other 
substances and those used for laboratory and analytical purpose ); Annex E (exc luding Import 
approval items in Substances which Deplete the Ozone Layer, those used as raw materials for 
producing other substances, those used for laboratory and analytical purpose and those used for the 
quarantine of the export or import of cargo); and Annex F (excluding Import approval items in 
Substances which Deplete the Ozon layer, those used as raw materials for producing other 
substances) of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.  
 
3. The approval system applies to product s coming from all countries.  
 
4. In principle, the permit system is intended to restrict the quantity of imports. The approval system 
shall function to perform the duty of the Montreal Protocol. A certificate for an import quota shall be 
issued for transac tions that are made based on the control of a treaty.  
 
5. The permit system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1 (1) and Article 9.1 of the Import Trade 
Control Order. The controlled items shall be published as an Import Notice in the Official Gazette . 
Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative discretion. 
It would be possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.   
 
Procedures  
6. The permit system applies to products coming from all countries.  
 
I. The information about an import quota's application shall be published in the Official Bulletin 
of Economy, Trade and Industry and the International Trade Bulletin. The total amount is not 
published.  
 
 An application for import licensing is not necessary, in cases where the value of a cargo should 
be estimated below Yen 180,000 and should be of no -commercial value. In these cases, a 
declaration shall be sent to customs, and a confirmation shall be receiv ed from the customs 
bureau.  
 
II. The size of quota shall be determined based on the performance according to the Protocol. 
The amount of an import quota shall be determined on a one -year basis. In principle, for one 
import quota application procedure, an application shall be made once only, and the certificate 
for an import quota is issued based on this application. If several applications are made, 
several certificates based on these applications can be issued.  
 
III. Licensed products shall be restricted quantitatively, which performs the duty of the Protocol. 
A certificate for an import quota shall be issued to a person who has been through the 
procedure based on the performance according to the objectives of the treaty.  
 
 Whether a certificate of import quota is actually used for imports or not is confirmed by the 
report of importation which importers are obliged to submit.  
 
 In principle, unused allocations are not added to quotas for a succeeding period as the 
allocation is determined based on the forec ast of domestic supply and demand. However, as 
an exception, it shall be allowed, only on condition that an importer has no responsibility for G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 20 - 
 
  the cause of unused allocations, or that prohibition from the exporter's side leads to unused 
allocation, etc.  
 
IV. Publication of the information concerning procedures shall take place at least 21 days prior to 
the first day of accepting applications.  
  
V. After receipt of an application for import quota and approval, the METI shall process it as 
quickly as possible . It would take about three weeks to carry out the process required by the 
METI.  
 
VI. An application for an import quota and approval shall be made prior to the import declaration.  
After issuance of the certificate of import approval issued by the METI, i t would be possible 
for an importer to declare an import anytime, even on the very day of the issuance of the 
certificate of import approval.  
 
VII. Consideration of an import quota and approval application shall be carried out only by the 
METI.  
 
VIII. When the scale of an import quota application is within the limit of the size of a quota 
calculated by every application factor, the demand for licences can be fully satisfied.  
Applications are examined on receipt.  
 
IX-XI. Not applicable.  
 
7. Not applicable.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. the period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Only a person who carries out transactions that are made based on the control of a treaty is 
eligible to apply for an import quota.  
 
The eligibility for an import quota comes under any one of the above. There is no other registration 
system.  
 
Documentational an d other requirements for application for a licence  
10. An application for import quota allocation and approval should be submitted to the METI. Another 
requirement is a certificate demonstrating that an applicant meets the application criteria.  
 
11. A curr ent certificate of import approval by the METI is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions  of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designate a validity term 
different from this or extend the validity as required by certain circumstances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of more than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be tran sferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 21 - 
 
  Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
8.2  Import Approval Items  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and Internati onal Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for:  
 
(1) Controlled substances listed in Annexes A, B, C, Group I, Group II, Group III, D, E, and F of 
the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer com ing from non -members 
of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.  
 
(2) Specified hazardous wastes in item 1 of Section 2 of the Law for the Control of the Export and 
Import of Specified Hazardous Wastes and Other Wastes.  
 
(3) Wastes  in item 1 of Section 2 of the Waste Management and Public Cleansing Law (except for 
wastes produced from ship or aircraft navigation in Article 4.2 and for a person who enters 
Japan carrying wastes).  
 
(4) Specified products in item 3 of Section 2 of the L aw on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons 
and Regulation.  
 
(5) The chemical substances specified in item 5 of Section 2 of the Law on the Prohibition of 
Chemical Weapons and Regulation.  
 
3.(1) The approval system applies to paragraph 2.(1) with regard to that coming from all countries 
excluding members of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.  
 
(2) The approval system applies to paragraphs 2.(2) to 2.(4) with regard to  that coming from all 
countries.  
 
(3) The approval system applies to paragraph 2.(5) with regard to that coming from all countries 
excluding members of the Chemical Weapons Convention.  
 
4. The approval system is not intended to restrict the quantity or val ue of imports. It exists to 
perform the functions of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, the 
Basel Convention on the Control of Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal, Waste 
Disposal and the Public Cleansing Law, the  Law on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and the 
Regulation of Specific Chemicals.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensi ng up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 22 - 
 
  7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval ca nnot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an appr oval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. t he period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures; however, in principle, 
approval shall not be given to the items listed in 2.(1) and 2.(5).  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, firm or institution which fulfils the legal requirements are equally eligible to apply for 
and obtain import approval.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a licence  
10. A n application and state of reason for import license should be submitted to the METI.  
 
11. A current certificate of import approval by the METI is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designate a validity term 
different from this or extend the validity a s required by certain circumstances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of more than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no pena lty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrat ive procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
9  CULTURAL PROPERTY  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 23 - 
 
  The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Offi cial Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for designated foreign cultural properties.  
 
3. The approval system applies to designated for eign cultural properties coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The approval system 
shall function to perform the duty of the Convention on the means of prohibiting and preventing the 
illicit import, export and transfer of ownership of cultural property, the Convention for the Protection 
of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, the Protocol to the Convention for the Protection 
of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed conflict and the Second Protocol to the Hague Convention 
of 1954 for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the d esignation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. In principl e, approval shall not be given.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural  requirements  
18.-19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 24 - 
 
  10  ALCOHOL  
Outline of systems  
1. An importer who intends to import alcohol (which contains alcohol of 90 per cent by vol. or higher 
(HS No. 2207.10)) for the purpose of test, research or analysis shall obtain the approva l of the METI 
for each import.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. An importer who intends to import alcohol (which contains alcohol of 90 per cent by vol. or higher 
(HS No. 2207.10)) for the purpose of test, research or analysis shall obtain the approval of the METI 
for each import.  
3. The system applies to products coming from all countries.  
 
4. This system does not regulate the volume or value of imports. However, the quantity must be 
appropriate judging from the purpose of its use. The purpose of the approval system is to allow 
those who are not the permitted importers to import alcohol for the purpose of using it for test, 
research or analysis. (In principle, no such approval is required for import of alcohol by an importer 
with the permission of the import business under the Article 16 of the Alcohol Business Law.)  
 
5. The METI gives approval in accordance with Article 17 of the Alcohol Business Law. The system 
does not leave  any administrative discretion to designate which products are subject  to the law. 
Legislation is necessary to abolish the licensing system.  
 
Procedures  
6. Although there is no import quota, the quantity of imports must be appropriate judging from the 
purpose of its use. The approval system applies to products coming from all countries.  
 
I. An application shall be submitted in accordance with application form No. 17 of the Alcohol 
Business Law, which was published in the Official Gazette dated 5 October 2000.  
 
II. There is no import quota.  
 
III-IV. A quota system is not applicable.  
 
V. The process of application is carried out within two weeks.  
 
VI. Import ers may declare import any time after they obtain import approval in accordance with 
Alcohol Business Law.  
 
VII. Approval is given only by the METI.  
 
VIII-IX. There is no import quota.  
 
X. Not applicable.  
 
XI. Approval shall be granted only when alcohol is imported for the purpose of test, research, or 
analysis.   
 
7.(a) An importer shall apply for import approval, taking into account the time, which usually takes 
two weeks.  
 
(b) It usually takes two weeks to obtain an import approval. It cannot be  granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) There is no limitation.  
 
(d) An importer has to approach only the METI.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 25 - 
 
  8. No application shall be refused if an application complies with the ordinary criteria of application 
procedures. In case that an application f or a licence is refused, reasons for the refusal should be 
explained to the applicant. The applicant can also request for examination to the METI in accordance 
with the Administrative Appeal Law.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. There is n o restriction.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Application for the import approval shall be submitted to the METI in accordance with the 
application form No.  17 of enforcement regulation of the Alcohol Business Law.  
 
11. A valid certificate of import approval issued by the METI is required upon an actual arrival.  
 
12.-13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import approval should be given to every conduct of import for the purpose of test, research 
or analysis. Therefore, importers of alcohol shall obtain approval of the METI for each shipment and 
such approval is valid only for each occasion of import, and there is no term of validity.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a pa rt of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
11  ROUGH DIAMONDS  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bul letin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for rough diamonds: HS No. ex 71.02.  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from all countries.  
 
4. In principl e, the approval system is intended to perform the functions of the Kimberley Process 
Certification Scheme and the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1343 (2001).  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Tra de Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 26 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration aro und two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are c onsidered only by the METI.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criteria (e.g. the period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. There is no restriction.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. A person wishing to obtain the import approval shall submit to the METI, an application document, 
an application reason paper for import licences an d the Kimberly Process Certificate.  
 
11. The Kimberly Process Certificate (or a certificate import approval by the METI based on Customs' 
request)  is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designate a validity term 
different from this or extend the validity as required by certain circumstances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of more than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 27 - 
 
  12  CULTURAL PROPERTY ILLEGALLY REMOVED FROM IRAQ  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import  approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items s hall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approval is required for cultural property illegally moved from Iraq afte r 6 August 1990. 
HS Nos. 97.01, 97.02, 97.03, 97.04, 97.05, 97.06.  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from Iraq.  
 
4. In principle, the approval system is intended to perform the functions of United Nations Security 
Council Resolution 1483 (2003).  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Gove rnment to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An i mporter shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers m ay apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. In principle, approval shall not be given.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 28 - 
 
  13  ALL OF THE GOODS FROM NORTH KOREA  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to i mport approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for all of the goods.  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from North Korea.  
 
4. In principle, the approval system is intended to take the measures decided by the government.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative appr oval. 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. In principle, approval shall not be given.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for li cence  
10.-13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 29 - 
 
  14  WEAPONS AND OTHER ITEMS FROM THE LIBYAN ARAB JAMAHIRIYA  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for import s provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required f or weapons and other items.  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya.  
 
4. In principle, the approval system is intended to perform the obligation under United Nations 
Security Council Resolution 1970 (2011).  
 
5. Th e approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system w ithout legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import appr oval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. In principle, approval shall not be given.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements fo r application for licence  
10.-13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 30 - 
 
  15  CHARCOAL FROM SOMALIA  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4 . 
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for charcoal. HS No. 44.02.  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from Somalia.  
 
4. In principle, the approval system is intended to perform the obligation under United Nations 
Security Council Resolution 2036 (2012).  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of  Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not  applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking in to 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for i mport approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. In principle, approval shall not be given.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 31 - 
 
  16  CHEMICAL WEAPONS AND OTHER ITEMS RELATED TO CHEMICAL WEAPONS 
PROGRAMME AND CULTURAL PROPERTY ILLEGALLY MOVED FROM THE SYRIAN ARAB 
REPUBLIC  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes an d coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for following products:  
 
(1) Chemical weapons and other items related to Syria's chemical weapons programme.  
 
(2) Cultural Property illegally moved from the Syrian Arab Republic after 15 March 2011.  
HS Nos. 97.01, 97.02, 97.03, 97.04, 97.05, 97.06.  
 
3. The approval system applies to products coming from Syrian Arab Republic.  
 
4. In principle, the approval system is intended to perform the obligation under United Nations 
Security Council Resolutions 2118 (2013) and 2199 (2015).  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Gove rnment to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An i mporter shall apply for import approval, in advance of importation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers m ay apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. In principle, approval shall not be given.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 32 - 
 
  Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. Not applicable.  
 
17  MERCURY AND MERCURY -ADDED PRODUCTS  
Outline of systems  
1. The  METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply with Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the Official Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for the following forms of mercury and mercury -added products:  
 
(a) Mercury with a mercury concentration of at least 95 per cent by weight (HS No. 2805.40); 
and 
 
(b) Mercury -added products listed in Annex A of the Minamata Conventi on on Mercury.  
 
3. The approval system applies Mercury shipped from non -Parties to the Minamata Convention on 
Mercury, and the mercury -added products referred to in Annex A shipped from Parties and non -
Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury.  
 
4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The approval system is 
intended to perform the necessary functions of the Minamata Convention on Mercury.  
 
5. The approval system is a statutory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of th e Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of Mercury.  
 
(a) The Mercury and mercury -added products subject to import approval cannot be imported 
without a certificate of import approval. An importer must apply for import approval in advance 
of importation, taking into consideration approximately one week of processing time for 
mercury (in addition to the period for obtaining written consent from the exporting country) 
and 40 days for mercury -added products.  
 
(b) Examinations require time; ther efore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval at any time of year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. No application shall be refused if the standard criter ia (e.g. the period of application, the eligibility 
of application, the documentation for application) comply with the procedures.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 33 - 
 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. There is no restriction.  
 
Document ational  and other requirements for application for licence  
10. An application and state of reason for import license should be submitted to the METI.  
 
11. A current import approval certificate granted by the METI is required upon actual importation.  
 
12. There is  no licensing fee or administrative charge for a permit.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required in connection with the issuance of permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A license is valid for six months from the date of issue. The METI may designat e a validity term 
different from this or extend the validity as required by certain circumstances.  
 
An applicant has to approach customs bureau in the case of an application for extension of less than 
two months in total of validity, and in the case of mor e than two months in total, to the METI.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. Licences may not be transferred.  
 
17. In principle, there are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. There are no foreign exchange controls.  
 
18  CERTAIN PRODUCTS  ORIGINATED IN, OR COMING FROM, THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION  
18.1 Import Prohibition based on Import Trade Control Order  
Outline of systems  
1. The METI shall designate and publish a list of items of goods for which import approval must be 
obtained, to comply wi th Article 3 of the Import Trade Control Order. A person wishing to import an 
item published in the above -mentioned list shall be subject to import approval for imports provided 
for in Article 4.  
 
The list of items shall be made public by the METI in the O fficial Gazette, the Official Bulletin of 
Economy, Trade and Industry and International Trade Bulletin.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for various, including HS chapters 22, 27, 44, 84, 87 specified in 
accordance with the rel evant domestic laws and regulations for import control. (e.g. alcoholic 
beverages, crude oils and petroleum products, lumber, machinery and electrical machinery)  
 
3. In principle,  the approval system applies to products originated in, or coming from 
Russian  Federation. As for crude oils and petroleum products, it applies only to products originated 
in Russian Federation.  
 
4. In principle, the approval system is intended to take the measures decided by the government.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 34 - 
 
  5. The approval system is a stat utory requirement of Article 4.1(2) of the Import Trade Control 
Order. Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative 
discretion. It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative approval . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of im portation, taking into 
consideration around two weeks of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year. 
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the METI.  
 
8. In principle, approval shall not be given.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licenc e 
10.-13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. Not applicable.  
 
18.2 Import Prohibition based on Foreign Exchange Order  
Outline of systems  
1. The Ministry of Finance (hereinafter referred t o as "MOF ") is to designate the means of payment, 
securities or precious metal that residents or non -residents must get permission to import, by issuing 
a public notice, to comply with Article 8(1) of the Foreign Exchange Order. The persons in question 
seeking to import an item designated in the above -mentioned public notice must get the permission 
of the Minister of Finance through procedures prescribed in other related regulations.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Approvals are required for the precious metal shipped off after 1 August 2022 from the 
Russian  Federation, which contains gold bullion, gold coins that are not in circulation, or any other 
object made of gold as principal material, prescribed in Article  6.10 of the Foreign Exchange and 
Foreign Trade Act.  
 
3. The approval system applies to products originated in the Russian Federation.  
 
4. In principle, the approval system is intended to take the measures decided by the government.  
 G/LIC/N/3/JPN/2 2 
 
- 35 - 
 
  5. The approval system  is a statutory requirement of Article 8.1 of the Foreign Exchange Order. 
Legislation leaves the designation of products subject to licensing up to administrative discretion. 
It is possible for the Government to abolish the system without legislative appro val. 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7. No quantitative limit on the importation of a product.  
 
(a) The items subject to import approval cannot be imported without a certificate of import 
approval. An importer shall apply for import approval, in advance of  importation, taking into 
consideration around one week of the processing time.  
 
(b) Examination needs sufficient time, therefore, an approval cannot be granted immediately on 
request.  
 
(c) Importers may apply for import approval in any time of the year.  
 
(d) Applications for import approval are considered only by the MOF.  
 
8. In principle, approval shall not be given.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for license  
9. Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for license  
10.-13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. Not applicable.  
 
__________